Duggan and Rev Jesse Jackson Announce Fair for Detroit Contractors

Detroit officials want to employ more minority-owned contractors to carry out demolitions and rehabilitate homes.

Bre’Anna Tinsley/ WDET

Officials in Detroit say they want to increase the number of minority-owned contractors in the city helping fight blight. Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan, along with the Reverend Jesse Jackson, are announcing a series of job fairs to bring resources to contractors.

Duggan says the city should take advantage of the skills already in Detroit.

“We need to grow it here,” Duggan says. “And if you look at last year, 28 percent of all the contracts led were the minority and women-owned firms. 80 percent were based in Detroit. We have the expertise here.”

Duggan estimates the city will have almost $250 million worth of contract opportunities in the coming years for local businesses. The first contractor’s job fair will be held May 13th at the Northwest Activities Center. 

Author

  • Bre'Anna Tinsley
    Bre'Anna Tinsley is a reporter for Detroit Public Radio, 101.9 WDET. She covers city government and housing, as well as co-hosting the "Detroit Evening Report" podcast.